...Has anyone in your life made a life changing impact on you? perhaps a hero? There are many types of heroes, such as service members, story heroes, and also your average everyday citizens. Beowulf was a well known hero to the gates. He was to be known as the best, but times have changed. Most people today pay attention to the modern day heroes. Beowulf, a warrior and the main character of the epic, shows characteristics such as loyalty, generosity, and bravery which portray him as a hero. It is interesting how modern day heroes show not only similar, but also different qualities as Beowulf. One of the most appreciated heroes today in this modern time would be those who serve our country. In ways Beowulf could resemble a member of the U.S. military. “When we crossed the sea, my comrades/ And I, I already knew to win the good will/ of your people or die in battle, pressed/ In Grendel’s fierce grip.” (E.3; 7: 364-368) This passage compares Beowulf's promise to the people as a soldier would to serve his country. Both Beowulf and a soldier would risk their lives for the safety of others. Also both...
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...In the Old English epic, Beowulf, the book’s namesake, (Beowulf), is seen maturing from a young hero, to a wise king, and it is through this progression and growth that the old English bards developed Beowulf’s ultimate goal of eternal glory. From impressively defeating Grendel and liberating the Danes, to the revenge killing of Grendel’s mom, and even later by saving his nation through self-sacrifice, Beowulf captures the heart of those of the Anglo-Saxon and Scandinavian world to ultimately go down in history forever. Firstly; however, Beowulf had to start as the equivalent of a nobody to us, (the reader), and the world. All that is known is his quest to slay Grendel on accounts of its attacks on the Danish mead-hall, Heorot. “ ‘I come...
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...21 September 2012 Mike Hagerty Hagerty’s publishing 242 Publisher Lane Blue Springs, Mo, 64015 Dear Mr. Hagerty, As a proud citizen of my community, I believe that there are heroes amongst us all and they are just hiding behind their true self. The reason is that they are too scared to stand up for what they believe in or what they believe needs to be done, in order to create unity. And, that is why I am writing the publisher because I want to try and convince our community that heroes are all around the world and show their powers in different ways. Ohhh… and I’m not talking about NO ordinary superheroes that have all these magical powers; I’m talking about the heroes that simple just uses pure wisdom to influence the ones around them. This story will show the world that there are heroes out there in all different shapes and sizes. And, as far as the story goes, here are the ideas behind my story, so here we go: Way up high in the majestical forests, in the mountain of Emei, in China lives the Somaki people, who had the most inspirational/wise man that ever set foot on the lands called Mr. Morrison. For the people call their village the Spiritual Oracle because of Mr. Morrison; who takes on the form of a monk because of his vibrant white beard and bald head, the fact that he wears glasses and is as short (5’2 to be exact), his face looks as though it is wrinkled in certain areas giving him the effect of audacity allowing him to have the appearance of wisdom...
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...Alex Doubl\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\es Lizabeth Thompson \English II [ 11 January 2013 ] Heroes Since time began, people have been creating strong figures to look up to. These figures are known as heroes. The presentation, expectations and qualities of traditional heroes are different than those of modern day heroes, yet all are created in similar ways. Traditionally, past societies and cultures presented their heroes as infallible and set apart from society. Heroes were always expected to help people in distress and in every circumstance conquer their enemy. They were to complete their missions without error and the choices they had to make would be the best for everyone. In the past heroes were better than humans in every way. Heroes were stronger, faster, better looking, more intelligent and indestructible. They also felt that they could perfect the world. Good examples of traditional heroes can be found in Greek mythology. The gods were always watching over the world, but lived on Mount Olympus, separate from society. They helped people in need and were known to be beautiful, cunning and could not be defeated by any mere mortals. Ultimately, traditional heroes were flawless, but as society changed and progressed, so did the heroes. Modern day society views heroes as superhuman, yet relatable and able to fit into society. These modern heroes are expected to uphold a strong moral code...
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...about Steinbeck’s novel that never ceases to appeal to all audiences? From Joseph Campbell’s novel The Hero With A Thousand Faces, a twelve step model known as ‘The Hero’s Journey’ and ‘Archetypes’ has been established. The Hero’s Journey is a narrative pattern that the leading character takes on their typical adventure, and the Archetypes are the supporting characters though out the story. The Heroes Journey and archetypes can be perceived in thousands of stories, dramas, storytelling, religious rituals and psychological development including Of Mice and Men. The narrative pattern of, Of Mice and Men starts with the first stage, what Joseph Campbell called ‘The Ordinary World’. George and Lennie’s ordinary world is going around America, from job to job and ranch to ranch to complete their ‘American Dream’, they wished to own their own property and ‘live offa the fatta the lan’. George and Lennie were forced to leave their hometown, Lennie did not realise his strength and got himself into trouble, this was common for Lennie, but George was always there to fix the problem. As discovered by the reader, George is portrayed as ‘the hero’, the natural leader, Slim as ‘the mentor’ who provides George and Lennie with helpful advice through out the novel. Curley is represented as the ‘threshold guardian’ and ‘the herald’ who tests and provides fears and doubts for ‘the hero’ but also makes the adventure possible. Curley’s wife is the ‘shape shifter’ who changes the readers perceptions...
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...Throughout history, society has become accustomed with what they believe a hero should be but as each generation passes, this thought has shifted. Whether an immortal God with superhuman abilities or an average person who is giving everything they have to defend his or her people, heroes will rise when needed. The stories of Beowulf, Achilles, and Aeneas provide the reader with an example of what society of that time viewed a hero as and how they can compare with one another. Homer’s Iliad shows the reader whom ancient society believed a hero to be. It was written in a time when society relied on those strong enough and brave enough to rule the people. This was perfect for the character, Achilles, because in the Iliad he is described to be “godlike” (Iliad, 131) and “swift-footed” (Iliad, 121) suggesting he had superhuman traits such as strength and speed. These qualities worked to his benefit in battle and give him the “Hero” title he deserved. His story tells of his success on the battlefield and his defeat over Hector. Even though Achilles was seen as a hero to his people, he was not always emotionally sound. Achilles once gave up his wife, Breseis, to stop the god Apollo from sending a plague upon the Greek army. When the plague stopped, the battle roared on but Achilles did not participate. He was angered that his wife and prized possession was taken from him. It was not until his best friend, Patrocius, was killed that Achilles, out of complete fury, joined back in...
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...Writing Assignment 2: Hero Concept In literature there are many different concepts that authors use, one concept that is used is the 'hero concept,' which can capture any audience, and can be seen in many different ways, but it's pretty clear that a hero is someone with the will to stand up for what they believe in, has courage, and is strong for others. People in general, at some point, have wanted to be the hero, or have the courage to stand up for what they believe in. More often than not, people stand by and don't act in a heroic manner, so when reading a story, poem, or other piece of literature that uses the hero concept; it captures the reader and keeps the reader interested. The hero concept is clearly used in "Bodega Dreams," "Hard Rock Returns to Prison for the Criminal Insane," and "The Train from Hate." The authors of these pieces of literature keep the reader captivated by using the hero concept, and the pathos appeal, evoking a sense of emotion in the reader. "Bodega Dreams" by Ernesto Quinonez has a great example of a hero. This short story is of a class of apparent minority students, who are told by one teacher that they will never amount to anything, and would end up in jail or on the streets. Since the students are being constantly told that they will fail, they don't make an effort. This causes another teacher, the "hero," to become very angry, because he wants to see his students succeed. The narrator reveals this teachers heroic nature when the teacher...
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...cadets at West Point discovered that their janitor was the recipient this prestigious award it changed their entire outlook of this very quiet and reserved gentleman. When Col. James Moschat asked (12 Operation Group Commander/A Janitors Ten Lessons in Leadership) asked Mr. Crawford why he had said anything or shared his story, Mr. Crawford replied “That was one day in my life and it happened a long time ago”. It is obvious that he had to show courage to complete this act or bravery for his fellow man during this one particular battle. I looked beyond that day in history and was far more impressed on how Mr. Crawford expressed what he did as a single day in his long life. Mr. Crawford actions and disposition is what I believe makes a true Hero. They have the courage to take that...
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...Heros of the Holocaust What is a hero? A hero is defined as a brave or noble person, but this definition is not accurate after reading Arnold Geier's book Heroes of the Holocaust. This book deals with the true heroes of one the most repulsive and disgusting times in world history. The compilation of stories in this book are not so much about the survivors who tell the stories, but about the heroes who risked their lives and well being to come to the aid of others so these stories could be told. There are heroes such as Mr. Warszawski who sold his competitor's merchandise so the family could stay alive or Mr. DeJong who searched for days for his missing daughter. There are even the stories of German soldiers, who must not have believed in the atrocities surrounding them, and found ways to feed, clothe, or find better work in a labor camp. And finally there is the story of German SS officer Menke who recalled childhood memories to save a couple and pushed aside an implanted hatred for Jews. Throughout the whole book, the stories would not have been able to be told unless these heroes emerged and because of these heroes, we are reading these stories today. Simple acts of Kindness and four heros: Israel Orzech tells a story of pain, struggle, and simple acts of kindness. Orzech story begins as he is summoned to a "special roll call" for all sick inmates of labor camp Markstaett. During the roll call, he was one of about 50 inmates who were considered...
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...and stronger than women? A woman who has proven that this wrong is Hua Mu Lan. Mulan is worthy of the title “hero” because she was an inspirational, courageous and unselfish warrior. In ancient China, women were not allowed to join the army, because society thought women were not as capable as men. Mulan proved them wrong. She was able to stay in the army for ten years disguised as a man. She was successful in battle and she made important contributions to her country. More importantly, she inspired society to empower women. One of Mulan’s most significant and inspirational qualities was that she was courageous all throughout her life. To honor her country, she joined the army. If her masquerade had been exposed, it would have resulted in the death penalty. Yet she mounted her steed and went into battle, while risking her life many times. Mulan was able to hold fort against an invading army. Many of her foes fell before her. At the palace of Chang’an, she was recognized as the bravest of knights. Mulan is a hero not only because she was courageous; she was unselfish too. The incident which best attests to this trait was this: after returning in triumph from war, the emperor offered her a promotion in top ranks and whatever she desired. Mulan refused such an enviable future and simply asked to be returned home. This is why Hua Mu Lan deserves the title “hero”. She changed the views of society on women and held off many invading armies. She risked her own life for her...
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...In a revisit to Homer’s eighth century epic poem "Illiad", David Malouf’s "Ransom" explores the worlds of royalty, war and the common man. Although Malouf explores the original themes of revenge, redemption and fate, he predominately focuses on the human connections, relationships and inner thoughts of his characters. Malouf contends that Somax is the true hero of the novel, "Ransom", through the events he participates in, his disposition and the characteristics he displays. Somax, a mere commoner that Malouf has added into his novel, gives Priam an insight into the world he was missing out on. His chatter, whether about ‘[the] little cakes’or his ‘pretty daughter-in-law’, is always intriguing to Priam. After Somax successfully persuades Priam to do a number of things, such as getting him to waddle in the stream and nibble on some griddlecakes, he describes Priam as 'like a child’. Throughout their journey, Somax attempts to ‘…fill out the picture’of the ordinary life Priam has overlooked ‘reveal[ing] these things to him' which help Priam learn more about the “interesting” world around him, the “prattling world” full of “interest”, suggesting that Priam’s world of royal customs and kingship is dull and boring. He rarely makes decisions for himself as he believes ‘I’ve played my part.’ While Somax can be funny at times, that is not his sole purpose in the novel; Somax is more of a teacher to Priam, he teaches Priam many more things, for example...
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...Characteristics of the Epic Hero The form of the poem suggests that the material dealt with should be "events which have a certain grandeur and importance, and come from a life of action, especially of violent action such as war" (see C. M. Bowra, From Virgil to Milton, p. 1). 1. The hero is not only a warrior and a leader, but also a polished speaker who can address councils of chieftains or elders with eloquence and confidence. (Beowulf, 258-259) 2. The hero possesses distinctive weapons of great size and power, often heirlooms or presents from the gods. (Grendel, 102-125) 3. The hero must undertake a long, perilous journey, often involving a descent into the Underworld (Greek, "Neukeia"), which tests his endurance, courage, and cunning. (Beowulf, 539-541) 4. Although his fellows may be great warriors (like Achilles and Beowulf, he may have a comitatus, or group of noble followers with whom he grew up), he undertakes a task that no one else dare attempt. (Beowulf’s fellows 206-209) 5. Whatever virtues his race most prizes, these the epic hero as a cultural exemplar possesses in abundance. (Beowulf, 415-418) 6. The concept of arete (Greek for "bringing virtue to perfection") is crucial to understanding the epic protagonist. (Beowulf 340-347) 7. The hero establishes his nobility through single combat. A hero gains little honour by slaying a lesser mortal, but only by challenging heroes like himself or adversaries of superhuman power. (Beowulf removing his...
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...10 Qualities of a Good Leader 1 of 3 http://penfieldrobotics.com/forum/index.php?topic=1750.0 Welcome, Guest April 14, 2010, 05:30:52 AM Please login or register. Login with username, password and session length News: 1511 will be hosting the 6th Annual Rochester Rally on Sunday February 21st!! HOME HELP SEARCH CALENDAR LOGIN REGISTER Team 1511- Rolling Thunder » Subteams » Team Leadership » 10 Qualities of a Good Leader « previous next » Pages: [1] Author Kims Robot Let's Go Thunder! Administrator Hero Member Posts: 2329 PRINT Topic: 10 Qualities of a Good Leader (Read 30251 times) 10 Qualities of a Good Leader « on: January 15, 2008, 11:28:50 AM » I was searching for some stuff today and ran across this list. Its a pretty honest and downright straightforward discussion, so dont read it if you arent ready for it In this generation of entitlement, some of it may not make sense, but I guarantee its all true. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ What follows is a list of the 10 qualities of a good leader. 1. Honesty Do or Do Not, there is no Try! Leaders have to be honest. If those under your charge do not trust you, then they won’t follow you. Common sense, if you ask me. 2. Responsibility If you are going to make decisions, then you should take responsibility for the decisions that you make. Good leaders don’t pass the buck or blame other people – they deal with situations that arise and take responsibility...
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...and stronger than women? A woman who has proven that this wrong is Hua Mu Lan. Mulan is worthy of the title “hero” because she was an inspirational, courageous and unselfish warrior. In ancient China, women were not allowed to join the army, because society thought women were not as capable as men. Mulan proved them wrong. She was able to stay in the army for ten years disguised as a man. She was successful in battle and she made important contributions to her country. More importantly, she inspired society to empower women. One of Mulan’s most significant and inspirational qualities was that she was courageous all throughout her life. To honor her country, she joined the army. If her masquerade had been exposed, it would have resulted in the death penalty. Yet she mounted her steed and went into battle, while risking her life many times. Mulan was able to hold fort against an invading army. Many of her foes fell before her. At the palace of Chang’an, she was recognized as the bravest of knights. Mulan is a hero not only because she was courageous; she was unselfish too. The incident which best attests to this trait was this: after returning in triumph from war, the emperor offered her a promotion in top ranks and whatever she desired. Mulan refused such an enviable future and simply asked to be returned home. This is why Hua Mu Lan deserves the title “hero”. She changed the views of society on women and held off many invading armies. She risked her own life for her...
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...Week 8 Questions For Critical Thinking: 1. Distinguish between leadership and followership. Followership is defined as “the act or instance of accepting the guidance and command of someone who leads or guides” (dictionary.com). A newly employed worker is a prime example of a follower. Having little knowledge about the job, the employee is unable to neither make important decisions affecting a group of people nor teach others by example. The employee is only able to accept the lessons and duties imposed upon him by his ordinates. The follower will imitate the leader’s behavior and actions, gaining self-discipline, motivation, ideas, and responsibility from those experiences, if the leader exhibited those qualities as well. These acquired qualities are necessary for the cadet’s development as a follower, and eventually, a leader. Leadership is essentially the contrary to followership. Leadership is defined as “is the process of influencing others and the process of facilitating individual and collective efforts to accomplish shared objectives” (Organizational Behavior, 11th Edition. John Wiley & Sons p. G-6). Leaders have the necessary experience, skill, and motivation to bear responsibilities that a follower might not be capable of handling. As mentioned previously, a follower imitates the behavior imposed upon him or her by his or her leader. The leader must act properly as a role model for the follower, exhibiting self-discipline, motivation, and responsibility to teach the...
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